Bengaluru/Lucknow: A spectacular showcase of Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural traditions, spiritual heritage and celebrated cuisine is set to unfold in Bengaluru as a four-day ‘UP Mahotsav’ will be organised at the Art of Living Foundation International Center from May 21 to May 24, 2026.
The mega celebration is being organised in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government’s tourism, culture and industry departments to mark the completion of 45 glorious years of the Art of Living movement. The event will also coincide with the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of global spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who is expected to grace the festival with his presence.
Organisers said the event aims to present Uttar Pradesh’s diverse artistic traditions, spiritual legacy and culinary richness before a national and international audience gathered at the Bengaluru ashram.
Thousands from Uttar Pradesh to Attend
Thousands of teachers, volunteers, practitioners and families associated with the Art of Living from different districts of Uttar Pradesh are expected to participate in the festival.
To facilitate travel for participants, two special trains have been arranged from Uttar Pradesh to Bengaluru via Kanpur, Prayagraj and Satna routes. Large groups of devotees and participants are expected to travel to the ashram through these special services.
Adding a unique dimension to the celebrations, nearly 70 children from the Gurukul at the Farrukhabad Ashram will also take part in the festival.
Renowned Artists to Present Uttar Pradesh’s Cultural Heritage
The cultural evenings of the festival will feature performances representing various regions and traditions of Uttar Pradesh.
Padma Bhushan awardee Sajan Mishra of the Banaras Gharana will present classical vocal recitals, while Padma Shri awardee Urmila Srivastava will perform traditional folk songs rooted in the cultural soil of Uttar Pradesh.
Kathak performances will be presented by Dr. Aarti and her troupe from Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, showcasing Lucknow’s renowned dance tradition.
Visitors will also witness vibrant Braj Raas performances by Geetanjali and her team, depicting stories associated with Lord Krishna and the cultural traditions of Braj.
Food Festival to Highlight Flavours of Uttar Pradesh
One of the major attractions of the event will be an elaborate food festival celebrating Uttar Pradesh’s culinary diversity.
Guests will get an opportunity to savour Awadhi delicacies, Banarasi chaat, Braj pedas and several traditional street food specialties from different regions of the state. Organisers said the food festival has been designed to introduce visitors to Uttar Pradesh’s rich culinary heritage and authentic regional flavours.
Wellness, Yoga and Meditation Sessions Planned
Apart from cultural performances and food showcases, the festival will also host special wellness sessions for children and adults.
The Art of Living will conduct programmes focused on mental wellness, stress management, yoga, meditation and Sudarshan Kriya. Dedicated sessions including Medha Yoga, Utkarsha Yoga and Intuition Process programmes have also been planned for children and teenagers.
According to the organising committee, the event is envisioned not merely as a cultural gathering but as a grand experience of “service, spirituality and celebration,” bringing together people from across India and abroad to experience India’s spiritual depth, cultural unity and collective harmony.
